Dawlish Discussion

Perhaps the railway between Exeter and Newton Abbot should be submitted for consideration as a World Heritage site

1.  It is a wonderful example of Victorian engineering

2.  It is a wonderful example of Brunel's work

3.  It is arguably the most scenic and unique stretch of rail in Britain

4.  It would make it very difficult for any Government to close it.

5.  The areas above the tunnels are great wildlife habitats

6.  The tunnels are quite special, having been constructed to accommodate Brunel's original 7-foot gauge specification.

Does the EU have money it could put into the Preservation of the Dawlish Railway pot?

Probably.  They seem to have it for most things.  Someone local in authority needs to ask, and I currently live in Spain.

An idea, but the problem is UNESCO designation as a World Heritage Site brings absolutely no money with it

It would help the case in any funding applications, but not as much as people might think,

The suggestion was for preservation. Funding is an entirely separate isse that would need consideration later.  At the moment, Network Rail foot the whole bill.  I'm sure they would welcome the opportunity to have access to other funds.  In Córdoba in Spain, the Cathedral/Mosque is partly state funded, partly tourism funded and partly funded by the Roman Catholic Church.  As a World Heritage site, tourism would be enhanced and the opportunity for merchandising would grow with it.